Winemaker's Notes:

It has our typical bright green-gold color, obviously not heavily oaked or malolactic styled. The nose is dominated by intense green apple; it is spicier than most vintages, which we attribute to the lack of heat during the growing season. The palate follows the fruit aroma with the green apple and some melon flavors, but its quite crisp and that is directly attributed to the cool vintage. The overall texture is very crisp and clean. At this stage our little amounts of new oak and cellar complexes are very much in the background. Although we dont feel this vintage is a real ager, we do think it will continue to benefit from another year or two in the bottle. This is a strong, bright, intense chardonnay and will be best with traditional fish preparations and with some spicier dishes like paella, and perhaps gingery Pacific Rim cuisine.

My Notes:

About Chateau Montelena:

Chateau Montelena was founded in 1882 by Alfred Tubbs. The renaissance of the winery, under the leadership of James Barrett, began in 1972 with the replanting of the Estate vineyard and the establishment of the Chateau Montelena philosophy: make the best, period. Today the tradition continues. Jim Barrett’s son, Bo, winemaker at Chateau Montelena beginning in 1982, is now its Master Winemaker. After more than three decades of experience with the same vineyards and varieties, the Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and Napa Valley Chardonnay are recognized as world-class.